If there is one thing that makes you fall in love with Almería, apart from its breathtaking landscapes and endless coastline, it is its small villages full of charm. Sometimes it seems as if they have stopped in time, with narrow streets, little white houses and people ready to give you a smile. Today I bring you a list of the 10 most interesting villages in this province, ideal for you to organise a good route and discover the best of Almería. Let’s go there!
1. Mojácar
Let’s start with one of the great classics: Mojácar. This beautiful village is situated on a hill and stands out for its beautiful white houses. Mojácar is one of those places that catches you from the very first moment. Its narrow streets invite you to get lost while you discover charming squares and corners that seem to be taken out of a postcard. And, luckily, it is just a stone’s throw away from Mojácar Playa, where you have to take a dip.
Traveller’s tip: Climb up to the Plaza Nueva viewpoint for spectacular views of the Valley of the Pyramids.
2. Níjar
Níjar, the largest municipality in the province of Almería, stretches from Sierra Alhamilla to Cabo de Gata, offering a great diversity of landscapes. It is famous for its beaches, its urban centre of Arabic origin and, above all, for its rich craft tradition. Nijar’s handicrafts include pottery, jarapas and esparto grass, with Phoenician and Arab influences. Local craftsmen still make pottery in traditional workshops, while jarapas, colourful fabrics of Muslim origin, and esparto grass, used for baskets and decorations, remain popular. Visitors can watch the artisans at work and purchase these local products.
If you are a fan of natural spaces: Níjar is the gateway to the Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park, one of the wildest and most unspoilt paradises on the Spanish coast. It is an obligatory stop.
3. Vélez-Blanco
When you arrive in Vélez-Blanco, the first thing that greets you is its imposing Renaissance castle, which seems to watch over the village from above. This village is pure history, with its castle, churches and stately homes. It is rich in archaeological sites, such as the Cueva de Ambrosio (Neolithic) and the Cueva de los Letreros, where the famous painting of the “Indalo”, symbol of Almería, can be found.
Fun fact: The courtyard of the Castillo de Vélez-Blanco is on display at the Metropolitan Museum in New York – a jewel that crossed the pond!
4. Sorbas
Sorbas is one of those places that seem to defy the laws of physics. This village is literally hanging over the edge of a ravine, with the houses jutting out into the void. Strolling through its narrow streets is a unique experience.
For speleology lovers: the Sorbas Caves are another obligatory stop. These underground formations are a spectacle for the eyes, with stalactites and stalagmites that will leave you open-mouthed. But the most striking features are the walls, covered with gypsum crystals that sparkle in the light. Visiting the Sorbas Caves is an adventure accessible to all, with routes that allow you to explore its passages and galleries.
5. Carboneras
This municipality on the Levantine coast of Almeria, within the Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park, stands out for its arid, semi-desert and volcanic landscape. Although it is best known for its beaches, such as the famous Playa de los Muertos, one of the most spectacular in Spain, Carboneras has much more to offer.
It is the first Andalusian land-maritime protected area, with volcanic mountains, a coastal strip with dunes, beaches, salt marshes and a marine mile of great wealth. The village, which originated in the 16th century with the construction of the Castle of San Andrés, is a group of white houses by the sea, ideal for enjoying the sun, the beach, the tranquillity and the excellent climate.
If you like nature: Carboneras is also an excellent base for exploring Cabo de Gata.
6. Lucainena de las Torres
Lucainena de las Torres, situated in the Sierra Alhamilla and traditionally dedicated to agriculture, especially grapes, has a rich historical past. This small village is surrounded by sierras and valleys that seem to have no end. It is perfect to lose yourself among its whitewashed houses and enjoy a tranquillity that is sometimes difficult to find.
Highly recommended plan: to do the Vía Verde de Lucainena, a route that follows the old railway line and that will allow you to discover breathtaking landscapes.
7. Laujar de Andarax
In the heart of the Alpujarra of Almeria we find Laujar de Andarax, a village surrounded by mountains, olive groves and vineyards that is part of the “Most Beautiful Villages of Spain” club. It is a place full of history and culture, with a rich Moorish heritage that is reflected in its architecture and gastronomy. In addition, hiking routes start from here that will take you to discover the beauty of the Sierra Nevada mountain range in Almería.
For lovers of good wine: Laujar de Andarax is an obligatory stop, as it is one of the most important wine-growing areas in Almería.
8. Tabernas
When we talk about Tabernas, we cannot fail to mention its famous desert, the only desert in Europe. But apart from the arid landscapes that look like something out of a Western movie, this town has its own charm. Here you will find the Oasys MiniHollywood, a theme park that will take you straight back to the cowboy movies that used to be filmed in the area. Ideal if you love westerns or are travelling with children.
For hikers: the Tabernas desert is an incredible place for hiking routes and discovering a landscape completely different from the rest of the province.
9. Serón
Serón is famous for its delicious Serrano hams, but this village offers much more. Located in the heart of the Sierra de los Filabres, Serón is ideal for nature lovers, with hiking trails that will lead you to discover lush green landscapes. Its old town is a perfect place to lose yourself and enjoy the tranquillity of a typical Andalusian village.
Gastronomic tip: Don’t forget to try the Serón ham, I assure you that you won’t regret it!
10. Alhama de Almería
This municipality, of Moorish origin, sits on a watchtower overlooking the Andarax Valley and has the typical Almerian urban layout with narrow streets and houses without roofs. Amongst its attractions are the café La Tertulia, the Church of San Nicolás and a bridge of Roman origin. Although linked to the Muslim period, Roman remains have been found. After the expulsion of the Moors and years of neglect, it revived in the 19th century thanks to mining and agriculture, boosting the cultivation of Ohanes grapes and the construction of a spa.
Famous for its gastronomy: Among its most outstanding dishes are sausages, meats and stews. Also noteworthy are its sweets, such as the Easter bread rolls or the mantecados de miel and rosquillas.
